White-crowned Parrot

The White-crowned Parrot, or Pionus senilis, is a small, robust parrot with a distinctive white forehead and crown, reminiscent of an elderly man's snowy locks, hence its species name 'senilis'. This bird measures approximately 24 cm in length and weighs around 220 grams. Its plumage is a mosaic of colors: a white throat, a dark blue head, neck, and breast, a light green belly, and dark green upper parts with a yellow-olive shoulder patch. When in flight, the blue underwings and red vent are particularly eye-catching.

Identification Tips

Adult males and females are similar in appearance, with the female's blue plumage showing as scaling on the lower breast and a less vibrant shoulder patch. Juveniles are less colorful, with more green on the head and neck, less red on the undertail, and crown feathers edged with white. The extent of white on the head varies among individuals and is not indicative of gender.

Habitat

The White-crowned Parrot is found in the forest canopy and edges, adjacent semi-open woodland, and secondary growth. It prefers lowlands and foothills, locally ascending to altitudes of up to 1600 meters.

Distribution

This species ranges from eastern Mexico to western Panama, with its greatest numbers found in Costa Rica. Despite threats such as hunting and habitat loss, the population remains stable.

Behaviour

These parrots are social creatures, often seen in flocks of 30 to 50. They may travel beyond their breeding range post-nesting. While feeding, they can be inconspicuous, moving slowly and quietly within the canopy. At rest, they may perch prominently atop an unopened palm frond.

Song & Calls

The White-crowned Parrot's vocalizations include a harsh "kreeek-kreeek" or "kree-ah-kee-ah" during flight. However, they can be surprisingly silent when nestled in the tree canopy.

Breeding

Breeding pairs nest in natural cavities in trees or hollow palm stubs, laying 3 to 6 white eggs in an unlined nest.

Similar Species

The Brown-hooded Parrot and the Blue-headed Parrot are similar species. The former lacks the white crown and red undertail coverts and has a brown head with white lores. The latter is mainly green with a bright blue head and neck, red undertail coverts, and yellowish wing coverts.

Diet and Feeding

White-crowned Parrots feed on seeds, nuts, and fruits. They can become agricultural pests, raiding crops of corn, sorghum, and commercial fruit plantations.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the White-crowned Parrot as Least Concern, indicating a stable population despite the various threats it faces.

Diseases

White-crowned Parrots are susceptible to diseases such as hemangiosarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and xanthomas. These conditions can affect various parts of the body and may require surgical intervention or dietary changes for management.